In Joseph Heller's "Catch-22," the character Yossarian uses vivid language to express his frustration with the absurdity of war and the bureaucratic nature of military life. The phrase addresses the absurd qualities of those around him, emphasizing their self-satisfaction and lack of depth. Heller’s portrayal reflects the disillusionment that many soldiers experience, caught in a system that prioritizes rules over individual lives.

This quote encapsulates Yossarian's growing repulsion toward societal norms and the people who embody them. It highlights a broader critique of complacency, suggesting that those who adhere blindly to the status quo are not only unthinking but also hinder the progress of meaningful change. Heller's work ultimately invites readers to question the integrity of such characters and the systems they represent.